I Decide project empowers those with intellectual disabilities

A documentary video focused on empowering those with intellectual disabilities was officially released Wednesday at The Capitol Theatre.

The video highlights the importance of rights-based education and services to people with intellectual disabilities. The goal of the I Decide project is to encourage independence in decision making and planning and ensure those who are in need have a say in what they do.

Legal Assistance of Windsor hosted the event, which fell on the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Stephanie Dickson, a lawyer and one of the people responsible for the project, said the government invested money in this project and others supporting those with intellectual disabilities following a settlement in a class action lawsuit.

Most people with intellectual disabilities are born with different cognitive learning styles, said video director Chris Rabideau.

“They just learn differently,” he said.

The I-Decide video had its genesis in a series of summer workshops, said Rabideau. Cameras were rolling as they shared stories, built a sense of community and had some fun.